Lifestyle changes that may reduce your risk of cancer

March 13, 2019 | by
CTCA

Studies reported by the National Institutes of Health have found that at least 75 to 80 percent of cancers in the United States may be prevented by lifestyle changes. Here are some steps you can take to decrease your risk of developing cancer.

Over the course of their lifetimes, Americans have a 1 in 3 chance of developing cancer, according to research reported by the American Cancer Society. However, the risk of developing each type of cancer and each person's individual risk may vary depending on lifestyle and environmental factors.

Some cancers stem from genetics, meaning you were born with a predisposition to develop them. However, studies reported by the National Institutes of Health have found that at least 75 to 80 percent of cancers in the United States may be prevented by lifestyle changes.

Here are some steps you can take to decrease your risk of developing cancer:

While no super food has been proven to defeat cancer, research shows that a diet high in fruits and vegetables can reduce your chances of developing cancer. Certain foods have also been found to have cancer-fighting properties.

For instance, garlic contains sulfur compounds that "may also stop cancer-causing substances from forming in your body, speed DNA repair, and kill cancer cells," according to WebMD, which adds: "The World Health Organization recommends that adults consume approximately one clove of garlic daily to promote good health."

Other powerhouse foods include broccoli, tomatoes, strawberries, grapefruit, red bell peppers, carrots and spinach. These foods are high in the antioxidants and phytochemicals that may help protect your body from cancerous cells.

Practice moderation

The golden rule of nutrition is to consume certain foods in moderation, but that rule is vague. More specifically, small amounts of red meat may not be harmful, but Harvard Medical School reported that higher amounts may increase your risk of colon and prostate cancers. You should also limit or avoid charbroiled foods, deep-fried foods and high-sugar foods, which may lead to obesity.

Wearing long sleeves, long pants, sunglasses, and sunscreen and using shade protection is a key lifestyle habit that can help you avoid developing cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting more than 3.5 million Americans each year. Prolonged exposure to radiation from sunlight or tanning beds raises your risk of skin cancer.

Most skin cancers are non-melanoma, which means they don't usually spread and generally need only topical treatment or minor surgery to remove them. However, 2 percent of skin cancers are melanoma, which is a form of cancer more likely to metastasize through the bloodstream to other parts of the body.